Da Vinci’s Italian Restaurant has been on Poole Quay since 1993, housed in one of the quay’s historic waterfront warehouses with sweeping views of the harbour.
This week, the restaurant has announced a change in ownership with long time team member Gennaro.
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Gennaro has spent over a decade learning, leading, and growing at Da Vinci’s, and now he has officially taken ownership.
Originally from Naples, he began his journey at Da Vinci’s over ten years ago as a waiter.
His passion and dedication soon saw him promoted to assistant manager, then restaurant manager and, five years later, former owner Nico invited him to plan for the restaurant’s future.
Nico was born in Calabria in Italy to a large family of new four brothers and one sister, and learnt from an early age the importance of food. He opened Da Vinci’s after working as a maitre d on busy cruise liners for several years.
Da Vinci’s has been open since 1993(Image: Da Vinci’s)
Last month, at just 32-years-old, Gennaro became the proud new owner of Da Vinci’s.
He said: “Da Vinci’s has always been more than just a restaurant to me.
“It’s where I learned the art of hospitality, built relationships with wonderful customers, and became part of the Poole community. I’m committed to continuing everything people love about Da Vinci’s.”
Gennaro, father of three and proud Poole resident, has retained the restaurant’s much-loved menu of classic Italian dishes, adding a few signature specials that celebrate his Italian roots.
Menu highlights include favourites like pasta and pizza, as well as restaurant specials including Da Vinci’s sandwich and Da Vinci’s pie.
One of the menu choices, the Linguine Crazy Alfredo, has inspired a local initiative.
For every dish ordered, Da Vinci’s will donate another to MyTime Young Carers, giving a young carer the chance to enjoy a meal out, on the house.
“It’s our way of giving back to those who spend their days caring for others,” Gennaro added.
“Every plate served helps create a little moment of happiness for someone who really deserves it.”
Gennaro knows the restaurant inside out, embracing his Italian roots, offering warm hospitality, and having a genuine care for the team and customers.
Dining and Cooking